Newcastle United are set to rival Crystal Palace, Everton and Leicester City, among other Premier League clubs, for former Chelsea ace Bertrand Traore, according to Sky Sports.
As per the outlet, Lyon are prepared to sell him in the summer transfer window, but an asking price has not yet been specified.
Indeed, fans of the Tyneside club may recall Traore from his time at Stamford Bridge, but the Burkina Faso international only managed to play in 16 games in all competitions for the Blues in just one season, scoring four goals and providing one assist (via Transfermarkt).
However, it was his relatively impressive loan spells in Netherlands with Vitesse Arnhem and Ajax that caught the eye in France.
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For Vitesse, before he returned to west London, Traore managed to score 20 times and record a further seven assists in 51 matches in all competitions (per Transfermarkt). For Ajax, the winger netted 13 goals and provided six assists in 39 appearances in all competitions.
Since joining Lyon, Traore has plundered 33 goals and 17 assists in 126 games in all competitions, impressive figures for a wide player.
If he can replicate his form with the likes of Vitesse, Ajax and Lyon, and put his Chelsea days behind him, Traore could well be a decent addition at St. James’ Park if Newcastle can land him.
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At 24 years of age, there is arguably still time to improve as well, but Steve Bryce may need to act fast to beat the substantial competition for his signature.
Geordies, would Traore be a good signing for Newcastle? Comment below with your views!
